2nd Annual “Made In Walton County” Songwriters Showdown

Disclaimer: We are promoting this event on behalf of a local chamber member. This event is not managed or sponsored by the Destin Chamber.




The Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) of Walton County is pleased to announce the finalists for the 2nd Annual “Made In Walton County” Songwriters Showdown, taking place Thursday, March 27, 2026, from 6–8:30 p.m. at The Pavilion at Watersound® Town Center. This family-friendly event celebrates the art of songwriting and showcases the region’s vibrant music community.
After receiving more than 30 submissions, the following songwriters have been selected as finalists: Emily Bass, Mason Charles, J. Cruz, Aubrey Freeman, John Gilleran, Hanson LeBoeuf, Tom Lennon, Erin Mitchell, Tom Pritchett, and Eric Stockton. Each finalist will perform an original song, offering a diverse and compelling mix of storytelling, creativity and musical style.

Returning as the Showdown’s host is singer-songwriter and 30A Songwriters Festival favorite Wyatt Espalin, who will guide and entertain the audience throughout the evening, performing some of his own original tunes. 

Finalists will perform their songs live for the audience and be evaluated by an esteemed panel of judges including singer-songwriters and musicians Kelsey Noble, Alex Rogers, and Grammy-nominated and CMA Award winning artist Gretchen Peters. Judges will score each song based on originality, lyrics, melody, composition and performance. Prize packages that include cash and future performance opportunities will be awarded for first, second and third place winners. 

Audience members will also have the opportunity to purchase tokens that can be cast as votes for their favorite finalist who will also receive a People’s Choice cash award. All proceeds from voting will support Arts programming in Walton County.

“Events like the Songwriters Showdown truly reflect the CAA’s mission to support artists and cultivate creativity throughout our community,” said Jennifer Steele, President & CEO of the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County. “By providing a stage for both emerging and established songwriters to share their original work, we celebrate the art of storytelling through music while creating meaningful opportunities for artists to connect with audiences and with one another.”

Guests will also have the chance to participate in a special raffle featuring a guitar signed by the members of Lady A and donated by the 30A Company. Raffle tickets will be available for $25 each or five for $100, with all proceeds supporting the Cultural Arts Alliance’s programs for local artists and musicians. The winning ticket will be drawn at the conclusion of the Songwriters Showdown, giving one lucky attendee the opportunity to take home this unique piece of music memorabilia. 

The event is free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to arrive early, bring a chair and beverages of their choice, and enjoy an evening of live music under the shade of The Pavilion. Last Call Eats food truck will be on-site with food and drinks available for purchase.

The event is presented by Watersound® Town Center, with additional support from the St. Joe Community Foundation. Sponsorship opportunities are still available; interested businesses may contact Gabby Callaway at Gabby@CulturalArtsAlliance.com for more information.